The ashy prinia or ashy wren-warbler is a small warbler in the family Cisticolidae. This prinia is a resident breeder in the Indian subcontinent, ranging across most of India, Nepal, Bangladesh, eastern Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and western Myanmar. It is a common bird in urban gardens and farmlands in many parts of India and its small size, distinctive colours and upright tail make it easy to identify. The northern populations have a rufous rump and back and have a distinct breeding and non-breeding plumage while other populations lack such variation.
Region
South Asia
Typical Environment
Found widely across the Indian subcontinent including most of India, Nepal, Bangladesh, eastern Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and west into Myanmar. It frequents scrublands, hedgerows, grasslands, fallows, and open woodland edges. The species is especially common in urban gardens, plantations, and agricultural mosaics. It keeps close to dense low vegetation where it forages and nests. In wetter regions it also uses reedbeds and weedy banks along water bodies.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The ashy prinia is a tiny, energetic warbler often seen flicking its long tail upright as it forages in low scrub and gardens. Northern populations show a rufous rump and distinct breeding/non‑breeding plumage, while southern birds are more uniformly colored year‑round. It adapts well to human-altered landscapes, making it a familiar sight and sound in villages and cities across much of South Asia.
P. s. stewartii with supercilium visible (Haryana, India)
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories year-round. Nests are neat, purse-like structures placed low in grasses or shrubs; both adults participate in nesting and feeding the young. Outside the breeding season it may join loose mixed flocks in suitable cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a sharp, repetitive tik-tik-tik or prrt-prrt that often accelerates into a rapid trill. Calls include harsh scolds and metallic chips delivered from exposed perches or while hopping through shrubs.
